Carbide, Nitride And Silicide Enhancers For Laser Absorption

ABSTRACT

A compounded polymer material that can be laser marked is provided. The compounded polymer material includes an enhancer of nitrides, carbides, silicides, or combinations thereof. Upon forming the compounded polymer material into an article and exposing it to laser radiation, the irradiated portion of the compounded polymer material absorbs the laser radiation, increases in temperature, and forms a mark in the article. A lightness value difference (ΔL) between the mark and the non-irradiated portion of the article has an absolute value of at least 5, and the lightness value difference between the mark and the non-irradiated portion is greater than if the polymer material did not include the enhancer.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. application Ser. No. 15/877,427 filed Jan. 23, 2018, which is expressly incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

The present subject matter relates to laser marking compositions for use in laser marking operations and various methods of laser marking using such compositions. The present subject matter also relates to articles marked using the noted marking compositions and/or methods.

BACKGROUND

Laser marking is a marking technique that uses lasers and other forms of laser radiation to additively bond a marking substance to a wide range of substrates or to change the color of a particular substrate material by chemical/molecular alteration, charring, forming, melting, etc. Laser marking forms permanent marks on material such as metals, glass and ceramic parts, and is used in many applications, ranging from aerospace to awards and engraving industries. Laser marking differs from the more widely known techniques of laser engraving and laser ablation in that laser marking is an additive process, adding material to the substrate to form the marking, or at least does not involve removing material from the marked substrate as in those techniques.

Individual laser bonding/marking compositions have had limited success when used to mark different types of substrate materials, and are therefore classified according to the particular material to be marked. Instead, laser marking compositions are usually tailored for marking specific types of material. For example, a single laser marking composition may leave a satisfactory laser mark on stainless steel, but may leave an unsatisfactory mark on other materials such as different grades of aluminum, anodized aluminum, brass, copper, pewter, titanium, glass, ceramic, natural substances such as rock (e.g. slate) or paper products, and plastic. In order to mark on these other materials, different laser marking compositions have to be used than those used for marking stainless steel. Accordingly, there is a need for a high contrast laser marking composition that can be used for marking a variety of materials.

Laser marking directly in a substrate comprising a polymer material, and not involving the use of a marking composition, is limited by the level of the polymer material itself to form a mark when irradiated with a laser. Accordingly, there is a need for forming higher contrasting marks in various polymer materials.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

The difficulties and drawbacks associated with previously known materials and practices are addressed in the present marking compositions and methods for laser marking.

According to one aspect, a compounded polymer material comprising a polymer material compounded with an enhancer selected from the group consisting of nitrides, carbides, silicides, and combinations thereof. Upon exposing an irradiated portion of the compounded polymer material to laser radiation, the irradiated portion absorbs the laser radiation, increases in temperature and forms a mark having a luminance, color value, or degrees of opacity that provides visual contrast with a non-irradiated portion of the compounded polymer material. A lightness value difference (ΔL) between the mark and the non-irradiated portion has an absolute value of at least 5. The lightness value difference between the mark and the non-irradiated portion is greater than if the polymer material did not include the enhancer.

According to another aspect, a method of producing laser marks includes providing a polymer material and an enhancer selected from the group consisting of nitrides, carbides, silicides, and combinations thereof. The polymer material and the enhancer is compounded to produce a compounded polymer material. The compounded polymer material is formed into an article having a desired configuration. At least a portion of the article is irradiated with laser radiation such that the irradiated portion absorbs the laser radiation, increases in temperature, and forms a mark in the article that has a luminance, color, and/or degree of opacity that contrasts with a non-irradiated portion of the article. A lightness value difference (ΔL) between the mark and the non-irradiated portion has an absolute value of at least 5. The lightness value difference between the mark and the non-irradiated portion is greater than if the polymer material did not include the enhancer.

As will be realized, the present subject matter is capable of other and different embodiments and its several details are capable of modifications in various respects, all without departing from the present subject matter. Accordingly, the drawings and description are to be regarded as illustrative and not restrictive.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a photograph of several substrates laser marked with a marking composition in accordance with the present subject matter.

FIG. 2 is a photograph of several other substrates laser marked with a marking composition in accordance with the present subject matter.

FIG. 3 is a photograph of a plastic substrate laser marked with a marking composition in accordance with the present subject matter.

FIG. 4 is a photograph of a ceramic substrate laser marked with a marking composition in accordance with the present subject matter, and another ceramic substrate marked with a comparative example marking composition.

FIG. 5 is a photograph of a glass substrate laser marked with a marking composition in accordance with the present subject matter, and another glass substrate marked with a comparative example marking composition.

FIG. 6 is a photograph of two glass substrates laser marked with marking compositions in accordance with the present subject matter, and another glass substrate marked with a comparative example marking composition.

FIG. 7 is a photograph of a slate substrate laser marked with a marking composition in accordance with the present subject matter and marked with a comparative example marking composition.

FIG. 8 is a photograph of an anodized aluminum substrate laser marked with a comparative example marking composition.

FIG. 9 is a photograph of an anodized aluminum substrate laser marked with a marking composition in accordance with the present subject matter.

FIG. 10 is a photograph of an aluminum substrate laser marked with a marking composition in accordance with the present subject matter, and another aluminum substrate marked with a comparative example marking composition.

FIG. 11 is a photograph of a brass substrate laser marked with a marking composition in accordance with the present subject matter, and another brass substrate marked with a comparative example marking composition.

FIG. 12 is a photograph of a stainless steel substrate laser marked with a marking composition in accordance with the present subject matter, and another stainless steel substrate marked with a comparative example marking composition.

FIG. 13 is a photograph of a plastic substrate laser marked with a marking composition in accordance with the present subject matter, and another plastic substrate marked with a comparative example marking composition.

FIG. 14 is a photograph of a ceramic substrate laser marked with a marking composition in accordance with the present subject matter, and marked with a comparative example marking composition.

FIG. 15 is a screen shot of a colorimetry analysis of the markings of FIG. 14.

FIG. 16 is a photograph of comparative example sheets of polymer materials that have been laser marked.

FIG. 17 is a photograph of inventive example sheets of compounded polymer material that have been laser marked in accordance with the present subject matter.

FIG. 18 is a photograph of a comparative example film of polymer material that has been laser marked.

FIG. 19 is a photograph of inventive example films of polymer material that have been laser marked in accordance with the present subject matter.

FIG. 20 is a photograph of comparative example films of polymer material that have been laser marked and inventive example films of polymer material that have been laser marked and in accordance with the present subject matter.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present subject matter relates to a universal or all-purpose laser marking composition that, upon irradiation with a laser, leaves a satisfactory dark mark with high contrast on a variety of materials including metal, glass, ceramic, natural substances, and plastic. The metal substrates may include substrates made from, for example, regular and anodized steel, aluminum, brass, titanium, etc. The natural substance substrates may include substrates made from, for example, clay bricks, cellulose material, or stone such as slate. The plastic substrates may include substrates made from polymers such as, for example, polycarbonate, acrylate, polyurethane, etc.

The invention of the present subject matter makes it possible to leave a satisfactory mark on a wide range of materials using a single marking composition, rather than having to use different laser marking compositions tailored for each particular material to be marked.

The present subject matter provides various marking compositions, methods, and articles marked using the noted marking compositions and methods. The marking compositions comprise one or more populations of enhancers, which are included in the marking composition and allow the marking composition to leave satisfactory laser marks on a variety of substrates. In accordance with the present subject matter, it has been discovered that certain aspects of the resulting marks can be significantly improved or enhanced by selection and use of marking compositions having the enhancers.

For example, surface bonding between the particles and the substrate can be enhanced by use of the marking compositions having the described enhancers. Generally, a darker, more contrasting laser mark results if the enhancer is included, irrespective of the substrate material. That is, by use of the described enhancer in a laser marking composition, an increase in contrast in laser formed marks can be achieved at a broader range of power settings and scanning rates, i.e. at lower laser energies and shorter times, to higher laser energies and longer times (i.e. at various time and power ratings). These and other advantages and benefits are described in greater detail herein.

The enhancers of the present invention can also be compounded directly into polymer materials to be laser marked, which compounded polymer materials can be formed into an article, such as a substantially two-dimensional coating or film, or a three-dimensional object. The article formed from the compounded polymer material can be directly laser marked by irradiating the article with a laser. Laser marks produced in this manner can contrast with the non-irradiated portion of the article more than if the enhancers were not included in the compounded polymer materials.

Marking Compositions and Compounded Polymer Materials

As used herein, the term “marking composition” means a material that can be disposed on a region of a substrate and irradiated by a laser to provide an additive mark on the substrate that visually contrasts with the substrate. In this regard, the mark is formed in an additive process on the substrate, wherein the mark is formed by adding material (i.e. the marking composition) to the substrate, rather than in a subtractive process such as by laser ablation. As used herein, the term “compounded polymer material” means a material including a polymer material and an enhancer dispersed therein, that can be formed into an article having a particular shape (sheet, coating, or three-dimensional object) and then directly irradiated by a laser to provide a mark within the article itself. While not being bound to any particular theory, it is believed that upon disposing the marking composition on a substrate and exposing the marking composition to laser radiation, the marking composition absorbs the laser radiation, increases in temperature, and chemically bonds with the substrate to form a fused mark on the substrate having a luminance, color value, or degrees of opacity that provides visual contrast with the substrate. While not being bound to any particular theory, it is believed that upon forming the compounded polymer material into an article and exposing the article to laser radiation, the irradiated portion of the article absorbs the laser radiation, increases in temperature, and changes color through, for example but not limited to, the polymer material undergoing chemical/molecular alteration or reaction, charring, forming, melting, bubbling, degassing etc. from the heat of the laser being absorbed by the enhancers to form a laser mark in the compounded polymer material itself having a luminance, color value, or degrees of opacity that provides visual contrast with the non-irradiated portion of the compounded polymer material. The marking composition of the present subject matter are considered “universal” or “all-purpose” marking composition because when formed on various materials, for example when formed on each of a metal, glass, ceramic, slate, and plastic substrates, the mark has a negative ΔL dark contrast value of at least −1, or −1 to −4, or −5 to −9, or −10 or more negative, when compared to a mark formed by a similar composition but without an enhancer selected from the group consisting of nitrides, carbides, and silicides. When the mark has a negative ΔL value of at least −1, the mark has visible contrast with a mark formed using similar composition but without an enhancer. When the mark has a negative ΔL value of −1 to −4, the mark has noticeable contrast with a mark formed using a similar composition but without an enhancer. When the mark has a negative ΔL value of −5 to −9, the mark has good contrast with a mark formed using a similar composition but without an enhancer. When the mark has a negative ΔL value of −10 or more negative, the mark has significant contrast with a mark formed using a similar composition but without an enhancer. When portions of the compounded polymer materials are irradiated with a laser, laser marks are produced that have an absolute value of ΔL of at least 5, 5-40, 7-35, 10-30, or 15-25 when compared to non-irradiated portions of the compounded polymer materials. In light-colored compounded materials, the laser mark is darker than the compounded polymer material; in dark-colored compounded materials, the laser mark is lighter than the compounded polymer material. Additionally, laser marks formed in the compounded polymer materials are more contrasting with the non-irradiated portions than laser marks formed in a similar polymer material that does not including the enhancers.

The resultant marked region contrasts with the non-irradiated region of the substrate or compounded polymer material, e.g., the marking may have a different (i.e. contrasting) luminance/lightness value and/or color value on the Hunter Lab scale as compared with the non-irradiated region.

In the Hunter Lab scale, also CIELAB scale (so named for the variables L, a, and b), L measures luminance or lightness and varies from 100 for perfect white to zero for black, approximately as the eye would evaluate it. Where DL=L (sample)−L (standard). If DL (which can also be expressed as ΔL) is positive, the sample is lighter than the standard. If DL is negative, the sample is darker than the standard.

The chromaticity dimensions (a and b) give understandable designations of color. The a dimension measures redness when positive, gray when zero, and greenness when negative. Where Da=a(sample)−a(standard). If Da (or Δa) is positive, the sample is redder than the standard. If Da is negative, the sample is greener than the standard.

The b dimension measures yellowness when positive, gray when zero, and blueness when negative. Where Db=b(sample)−b(standard). If Db (or Δb) is positive, the sample is yellower than the standard. If db is negative, the sample is bluer than the standard.

The Hunter total color difference (DE or ΔE) for any illuminant or observer is calculated as ΔE=√(ΔL²+Δa²Δb²).

The marking compositions may provide contrasting laser marks having different lightness values (L) as compared with the substrate lightness value (L), thus providing a negative or positive lightness value difference (ΔL) between that of the substrate and that of the irradiated marking composition as determined by the standard CIELAB scale. The compounded polymer materials may provide contrasting laser marks having a negative or positive lightness value difference (ΔL) between that of the non-irradiated and irradiated portions of the compounded polymer materials. The marking compositions may provide contrasting laser marks having different color values (a and b) than those of the substrate. The compounded polymer materials may provide contrasting laser marks having different color values (a and b) between those of the non-irradiated and irradiated portions of the compounded polymer materials. The marking compositions may provide optimum color characteristics having certain degrees of opaqueness to cover the laser marked portion of the substrate and provide contrast with the remaining portion of the substrate. The compounded polymer materials may provide laser marks that have optimum color characteristics having certain degrees of opaqueness that provide contrast between the irradiated and non-irradiated portions of the compounded polymer materials. The marking compositions may provide laser marks having lightness values, color values, degrees of transparency, translucence, opacity, and combinations thereof to provide contrast from the unmarked portion of the substrate. The compounded polymer materials may provide laser marks having lightness values, color values, degrees of transparency, translucence, opacity, and combinations thereof to provide contrast between irradiated and non-irradiated portions of the compounded polymer materials. The compounded polymer materials may provide laser marks having a total color difference (ΔE) with the non-irradiated portions of from 5-35.

The resulting laser markings made in accordance with the present subject matter may need to be opaque for one application (such as in ceramic applications), while another application the laser markings are colored, but may also have a certain degree of transparency or translucency to show a certain effect on the substrate or in the article. The difference in lightness values ΔL between the marked and unmarked regions typically has an absolute value of greater than about 10 as measured with a CIE D65 illuminant at 10 degrees. The absolute value of ΔL is greater than about 20 in one embodiment, or greater than about 25 in another embodiment. In a particular embodiment, the absolute value of ΔL is about 30 or higher. The laser markings made in accordance with the present subject matter and corresponding L, a, and b values for those markings are measured with a spectrophotometer using a CIE D65 illuminant at 10 degrees.

The opacity or opaqueness of a laser mark can be measured with a spectrophotometer over a black and white Leneta card. In one embodiment, the contrast measured over black and then white Leneta backgrounds for the opacity of a laser mark is from about 1 ΔE to about 5 ΔE and in another aspect from about 0.5 ΔE to about 2 ΔE.

Enhancer

The present subject matter laser marking compositions and compounded polymer materials generally comprise an enhancer selected from the group consisting of nitrides, carbides, and silicides. By “enhancer”, it is meant the nitrides, carbides, and silicides, and also one or more precursors that when heated by laser irradiation produce the nitrides, carbides, or silicides. For example, an enhancer may include one or more precursors that react upon laser irradiation to form ferrosilicon (FeSi), which is represented in the following generic chemical reaction: A(Fe)+B(Si)→(FeSi)+C. In many of the marking compositions and the compounded polymer materials described herein, more than one enhancer is provided. For example, the marking compositions and the compounded polymer materials may include a first enhancer, a second enhancer, and still additional enhancers.

The enhancer may include, but are not limited to, one or more of ferromanganese (FeMn), (Co)Mo, CaSi, Cu₅Si, ferrosilicon (FeSi), Fe₅Si₂, MgFeSi, MnSi₂, MoSi₂, Ni₂Si, TiSi₂, ZrSi₂, WSi₂, YSi, Al₄O₃, boron carbide (B₄C), CaC₂, Fe₃C, Fe₇C₃, Fe₂C, LaC₂, Mg₂C, Mg₂C₃, MoC, Mo₂C, Mo₃₀₂, SiC, Ta₄C₃, YC₂, WC, aluminum nitride (AlN), boron nitride (BN), Fe₂N, Fe₃N, Fe₄N, Fe₇N₃, Fe₁₆N₂, MoN, Mo₂N, silicon nitride (Si₃N₄), titanium nitride (TiN), W₂N, WN, WN₂, zirconium nitride (ZrN), and combinations thereof, such as various stoichiometric alloys may also be employed for example, in the case of Ferrosilicon Fe_(x)Si_((1-x)) where X can range from about 0.005 to 0.995 typical alloy values may be X=0.85, X=0.55, X=0.25, or X=0.10. The enhancer may be included at 2-20 wt %, 3-17 wt %, or 5-15 wt % of the laser marking composition and the compounded polymer materials.

While not being bound to any particular theory, it is believed that the enhancer acts as a reducing or deoxidizing agent when irradiated with laser radiation to provide an improved mark (darker, more contrasting) than compared to a laser marking composition and polymer materials not including the enhancer.

The laser marking compositions and compounded polymer materials may also include one or more of mixed metal oxide pigment, MoO₃, silicate mineral, binder, solvent, and dispersant.

Mixed Metal Oxide Pigment

The marking compositions or compounded polymer materials may include one or more mixed metal oxide (MMO) pigments, also known as complex inorganic color pigments (CICP), for imparting a color to the laser marking. Almost an infinite variety of colors can be achieved by using different and combinations of MMO pigments. MMO pigments are compounds including at least two metals along with oxygen. MMO pigments include rutile, hematite, or spinel crystal structures. MMO pigments can include metals such as cobalt, iron, chrome, tin, antimony, titanium, manganese and aluminum. The MMO pigment may be produced by calcination at temperatures of 800° C. to 1300° C. of a mixture of metal precursor materials.

The one or more MMO pigments may be included at 5-35 wt %, 15-30 wt %, or about 20-25 wt % of the marking compositions or compounded polymer materials. The MMO pigment is not particularly limited, and in one embodiment includes a cobalt-chromium-manganese-iron MMO pigment. Additionally, other coloring agents, such as pigments or dyes, can be used.

Silicate Mineral

In addition to other components, a silicate mineral(s) is optionally added to the marking compositions or compounded polymer materials to adjust rheological properties of and to provide durability for the laser markings in the marking compositions or for the compounded polymer materials. The silicate material may be included at 1-15 wt %, 2-12 wt %, or 5-10 wt % of the marking composition or compounded polymer materials.

Non-limiting examples of silicate minerals that can be used in accordance with the present subject matter include phyllosilicates selected from the serpentine group, the clay mineral group, the mica group, and the chlorite group. In one embodiment, the marking composition includes mica or talc.

The particle size of the silicate minerals is not particularly limited, and the particles can have a median average particle size of about 0.5-60 μm, 5-50 μm, 20-35 μm.

Transition Metal Oxide

The marking composition or compounded polymer materials can also include one or more transition metal oxides, which provides laser absorbing synergy to the marking compositions. The transition metal oxides may be included at 0.05-10 wt %, 1-9 wt %, or 3-8 wt % of the marking composition or compounded polymer materials.

Non-limiting examples of transition metal oxides that can be used in accordance with the present subject matter include molybdenum oxide (MoO₃), and oxides of vanadium, manganese, iron, cobalt, nickel, copper, zinc, tungsten, titanium, chromium, and compounds and mixtures of these. In one embodiment, MoO₃ is included in the marking composition or compounded polymer materials.

Binder

The marking compositions or compounded polymer materials of the present subject matter may comprise a binder to improve rheological properties, film formation, green strength, or package stability for the marking compositions or compounded polymer materials. Binders may be included at 0.01-5 wt %, 0.5-4 wt %, or 1-3 wt % of the marking compositions or compounded polymer materials.

The binder may be dissolved in the solvent, and can include one or more epoxies, polyesters, acrylics, cellulosics, vinyls, natural proteins, styrenes, polyalkyls, carbonates, rosins, rosin esters, alkyls, drying oils, and polysaccharides such as starches, guar, dextrins and alginates, and the like, and derivative thereof. In one embodiment, the binder includes hydroxypropyl cellulose.

Solvent

In accordance with the present subject matter one or more solvents are incorporated into the marking composition or compounded polymer materials. The solvent can be included at 35-65 wt %, 40-60 wt %, or 45-55 wt %. The solvents can comprise water or other aqueous-based liquids, or one or more organic solvents. If water is selected as the carrier, the water can be purified water, e.g. deionized water.

Non-limiting examples of other solvents include alcohols such as ethanol. Non-limiting examples of organic solvents include ketones, alkanes such as butane (such as if in liquid form as a result of pressurization such as may be used for spray applications), and aromatic organic solvents such as xylenes.

In accordance with the present subject matter, the marking compositions or compounded polymer materials may include solvents such as water, alcohols, polyols, chlorinated solvents, amines, esters, glycol ethers, ketones, terpenes, petroleum naphthas, aromatic hydrocarbons and natural oils. Other suitable carriers include furans, isoparaffins, N,N dimethylformamide, dimethylsulfoxide and tributylphosphine. In one embodiment, the solvent includes ethanol.

Dispersant/Surfactant

One or more dispersants or surfactants can be included the marking composition or compounded polymer materials to aid in wetting, dispersing, and deflocculating the nitrides, carbides, and silicides enhancer and other components of the marking composition or compounded polymer materials that are in particle form. In combination with particle size optimization, the dispersant inhibits coalescing or clumping of the particles. If the particles are subjected to a particle size reduction operation, the dispersant can be added during size reduction to inhibit the particles from aggregating together to form larger bodies. The dispersant can be included at 0.1-10 wt %, 1-8 wt %, or 2-5 wt %.

The dispersants are not particularly limited by the present subject matter. Examples of suitable dispersants include, but are not limited to, Anti Terra 204, which is solution of a polycarboxylic acid salt of polyamine amides, and DISPERSBYK182, which is a solution of a high molecular weight block copolymer with pigment-affinic groups, both of which are supplied by BYK Additives and Instruments, Abelstraße 45, 46483 Wesel, Germany.

Generally, any surface active dispersant, silicon based dispersant, etc., may be suitable for use in the marking compositions. Non-polymeric and polymeric surface active dispersants, surfactants or agents can be incorporated into the formula.

Preparation of the marking composition in liquid form can, for example, occur through low shear mechanical mixing, high shear mechanical mixing, ultrasonic mixing and/or milling, or the like.

Depending upon the type of application technique, the components of the marking compositions will vary. For example, if a tape is being produced, the marking composition may comprise a considerable amount of binder. However, if a powder is being formed, such powder may be free of binder. Similarly, if a liquid application technique is being used, a considerable amount of solvent may be utilized, whereas with a powder, little or no solvent would be employed. One or more additional components may also be included.

The marking compositions or compounded polymer materials made in accordance with the present subject matter can be formulated with fewer or additional components in ways that makes them suitable for one of many application techniques depending upon the particular requirements of the final marking process. For example, the marking compositions may be incorporated into a powder, a tape or a liquid medium.

Additional Components

The marking compositions or compounded polymer materials may optionally include one or more additional components (i.e. additives) generally known in the art to improve dispersability, wetting, flow and rheology, and to relieve surface defects.

The present subject matter marking compositions or compounded polymer materials may incorporate these additional components depending on the intended application. Non-limiting examples of typical additives include glass frits, glass frit precursors, metal oxides, metals, fluxes, oxidizers, reducers, coloring agents such as carbon black, viscosity adjusting agents, flow controllers, stabilizers, and clarity promoters to promote maintenance of optical characteristics of the marking compositions. As noted, the use of one or more additives in the marking compositions or compounded polymer materials is optional.

Examples of glass frits include those comprising alkali metal oxides, alkaline earth metal oxides, silica, boric oxide and transition metal oxides. In addition to glass frit, precursors of such glass frit materials may be used for the marking compositions or compounded polymer materials. Examples of glass frit precursors include metal oxides with glass formers, such as silica, zinc oxide, bismuth oxide, sodium borate, sodium carbonate, feldspars, fluorides, and the like.

Marking Compositions

Generally, when using the marking compositions, the mark quality depends on a variety of factors, including the substrate used, marking speed, laser spot size, beam overlap, materials thickness, and laser operation parameters. The marking compositions may be applied to the substrate by various methods including a brush on technique, masking, dosing, wet and dry electrostatic deposition, dispensing, coating, metering, painting, spraying, dipping, water fall, pad printing, screen printing, roll coating, tape, digital electronic deposition using such application techniques as ink jet and valve jet application, and others.

The marking processes using the marking compositions generally comprise three operations. One operation involves application of the marking composition to a substrate. Another operation involves bonding of the marking composition to the substrate with a laser. The laser used to form the laser marks is not particularly limited, and can comprise a fiber laser, a CO₂ laser, diode laser, or other lasers. And, still another operation involves removal of excess, unbonded marking composition from the substrate in the cases where the application technique deposits excess material that is not subject to the laser energy for making the desired mark.

In accordance with the present subject matter, a selected portion of the marking composition is permanently adhered to the substrate upon irradiation. As used herein, the term “adhere” is used to designate any permanent means of attachment of the irradiated marking composition to the substrate. For example, the irradiated marking composition may be adhered to the surface of the substrate by sintering the marking composition to the substrate, fusing the marking composition to the surface of the substrate, diffusing at least a portion of the marking composition into the substrate, chemically bonding the marking composition with the substrate by chemical reaction, and the like. In several embodiments, the marking composition is chemically bonded to the substrate.

As used herein, the term “permanent marking” means a non-temporary marking which, for example, possesses relatively high wear resistance, corrosion resistance and/or fading resistance. While not being bound to any particular theory, it is believed that the interaction of the laser radiation and the marking composition results in an inert coating mechanically and chemically bonded to the substrate material. The marking composition is believed to form covalent bonds with the substrate material upon laser irradiation, and it is believed this chemical bond exceeds the strength of the mechanical bond.

Upon bonding of the marking composition to the substrate by exposure to laser radiation, the resulting marking composition is fused to the substrate, and in most cases the marking composition is as durable as the substrate itself.

Use of and/or the combination of different marking compositions, second and/or subsequent applications of marking compositions and/or the adjustment of laser operation parameters will result in variations in the durability, appearance, and structural form of the resulting laser mark and are part of the present subject matter. All of these marking characteristics can be achieved with the use of a single low-power, low-cost air-cooled diode laser.

Application of Marking Composition to Substrates

In a particular aspect, the present subject matter provides various application methods for disposing the marking compositions to a substrate.

The thickness of the resulting coating can be adjusted and/or controlled by the use of viscosity agents in the marking composition, by the control of temperature, and by using optional treatments or pre-coatings on the surface to be marked. Depending upon the concentration of the coloring agent(s) (MMO pigment) in the marking composition and other factors, adjusting the coating thickness can be used to at least partially control contrast or darkness of the markings. Typically, thickness of the coating will vary depending upon coating chemistry and heat stability. Marking compositions are typically applied to the substrate with a thickness of at least about 0.1 micron, alternatively from about 1 to about 300 microns, or from about 5 to about 200 microns, or from about 10 to about 100 microns.

The present subject matter marking compositions can be disposed on a substrate by different means depending on the requirements for different applications. The characteristics of the laser markings can be tailored in part by altering the components of the marking compositions and in part by selecting the appropriate method for applying the marking compositions to a substrate.

In accordance with the present subject matter, the marking compositions are in both solid (e.g. a dry powder or tape) and liquid (e.g. a slurry) forms.

In one aspect, the present subject matter comprises a solid marking composition in the form of a powder. Marking compositions in powder form can be brought into contact with the substrate surface at the desired thickness by solvent-less or low-solvent methods such as tape casting, powder deposition, powder dispensing, powder coating, powder metering, powder dosing, powder masking, powder painting, or the like.

In another aspect, the present subject matter comprises a marking composition in the form of a liquid. Water based methods may be used because of their minimal environmental impact, but solvent based methods can also be used to control drying rate, dispersion or moisture sensitivity of certain marking compositions. In accordance with one embodiment, sol gel materials may be used to apply the marking composition to the substrate. Where dispersions are used, the deposited layer of marking composition can be dried prior to being exposed to laser radiation, however this is not necessary. The marking composition in liquid form can be applied onto the substrate surface by various methods such as screen printing, painting, flood coating, brushing, spraying, roll coating, dipping, flow coating, electrostatic application and doctor blading.

In one aspect of the present subject matter, marking compositions in liquid form are coated in the form of a tape onto a surface of a carrier film. The marking composition can, for example, be in the form of a tacky layer, arranged on a carrier film of polyester, polyethylene, polypropylene, or paper for example.

The marking compositions in tape form be disposed on a portion of a substrate and the carrier film can be removed. The tape can be transparent, opaque, or translucent. The use of a tape insures proper and uniform thickness and uniform distribution of components in the marking composition that is brought into contact with the substrate surface. It is not necessary that carrier film be used. It is also contemplated the carrier film need not be removed before laser irradiation, so long as the film does not interfere with the marking composition, and laser radiation can penetrate the thickness of the film to reach the marking composition to produce markings on the surface of interest.

Additional materials used in the application of the marking composition in liquid form or in the fabrication of tape may be substantially vaporized into combustion by-products and vented away from the substrate. A laminar air flow across the surface of the substrate can be created by venting and/or exhausting equipment to insure a consistent localized environment in which the process can occur.

In another aspect, marking compositions are dispersed in high temperature waxes or polymers in the form of a hot melt marking composition that is applied by heating the hot melt to liquid form and coating the substrate with the liquid, or by rubbing the surface of the substrate with such hot melt material while in solid form.

Compounded Polymer Materials

The marking processes using the compounded polymer materials generally include dispersing one or more enhancers in a polymer material to prepare the compounded polymer material, forming the compounded polymer material into an article, laser marking the article. The process may also include curing the compounded polymer material, which may occur before or after laser marking the article.

The polymer material is not particularly limited, and may include various thermoplastics or thermosets, including polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, synthetic rubber, phenol formaldehyde resin (or Bakelite), neoprene, nylon, polyacrylonitrile, PVB, silicone, fluoropolymers, acrylics, polycarbonates, ethylene vinyl acetate, etc., copolymers and homopolymers of these, and compounds and mixtures thereof.

The process of dispersing the enhancer in the polymer material is not particularly limited, and may involve mixing the polymer material in either melted or dry form along with the enhancer by using, for example, extruders, shakers, attritors, horizontal mills, immersion mills, two-roll mills, ball mills, grinders, spinners, blenders, mixers, etc.

Forming the Articles from the Compounded Polymer Materials

The process of forming an article from the compounded polymer materials is not particularly limited, and may result in the formation of a substantially two-dimensional sheet or coating, or of a three-dimensional object having a desired configuration. The forming process may include molding (e.g. injection, extrusion, blow, spin, rotational, or compression molding), forging, die casting, coating (e.g. wire, rod, doctor blade, or roll coating), roll forming, stamping, powder compaction, casting, spraying, dipping, or other forming methods.

Laser Marking

After the marking composition is applied to the surface of the substrate, or after the article is formed from the compounded polymer material, a selected portion of the marking composition or article is irradiated with a laser beam (i.e. laser radiation). Such irradiation to the marking composition adheres the irradiated portion of the marking composition to the substrate and forms a permanent marking thereon. Such irradiation to the article forms a permanent laser mark in the article. For many types of markings, the selected portion of the marking composition or article to be irradiated may comprise from about 1 to about 99 percent of the total surface area of the layer of marking composition or article, typically from about 5 to about 95 percent. In one embodiment, a laser is used to selectively irradiate the marking composition or article. However, other forms of focused energy may be used in accordance with the present subject matter. Irradiation may be achieved by moving a laser beam over a stationary substrate using conventional beam steering methods, by moving the substrate in relation to the laser beam, and/or by masking the substrate. Laser irradiation is typically achieved by directing the laser beam directly against the layer of marking composition or article, but may also be achieved by directing the beam through a sufficiently transparent substrate.

A wide array of lasers can be used for the present subject matter. Useful lasers for use in the present methods are those known as CO₂ lasers, fiber lasers (e.g. YVO₄ laser), diode lasers, excimer lasers, green lasers, red lasers, UV lasers, and others.

A CO₂ laser produces a beam of infrared light with the principal wavelength bands centering around 9.4 and 10.6 micrometers. CO₂ lasers are available commercially from numerous sources. A suitable CO₂ laser is a 35 watt CO₂ laser with about 9.2 micron to about 11.4 micron wavelength.

A fiber laser is a laser in which the active gain medium is an optical fiber doped with rare-earth elements such as erbium, ytterbium, neodymium, dysprosium, praseodymium, and thulium. They are related to doped fiber amplifiers, which provide light amplification without lasing. Fiber lasers are also commercially available from numerous sources. A suitable fiber laser is a 10 watt non-pulsed fiber laser with about 904 nm to about 1065 nm wavelength.

Generally, the intensity of the laser and the particular wavelength or ranges of wavelength(s) are selected based upon the characteristics of the marking composition or article, and the surface to be laser marked. Typical settings for a 35 watt CO₂ laser for universal laser markings is from about 2% to about 100% of full power at about 5 to about 100 inches per second speeds. For most coatings, a power level from about 2% to about 35% of full power at about 3 to about 100 inches per second speeds are used. A 10 watt fiber laser can be used from about 3 to 100 inches per second speeds and the power can be from about 1 to about 10 watts. The term “speed” as used herein refers to the velocity of the marking head as it moves across the surface being lased. The marking conditions will vary from one laser to another and achieving a mark is not limited to a particular laser. Changing to a higher or lower watt laser would change the marking parameters, and so one could mark at a lower % power and faster speed or vice versa. The particular combination of power setting, marking speed, and other parameters for the laser of interest can be determined by empirical testing to identify the optimum settings.

The actual power levels as measured at the surface to be marked are slightly different (more or less) than the power measurement of the laser as delivered. As will be appreciated, this is primarily due to the efficiency of the laser tube. A wide array of other lasers can be used such as YAG pulsed lasers, diode lasers, excimer lasers, green lasers, red lasers, UV laser and others.

In accordance with the present subject matter, the size of the laser spot that impinges the marking composition or article is typically greater than 0.1 micron in diameter, alternatively from about 0.1 to about 20 microns, or from about 0.5 to about 10 microns. The speed at which the laser beam travels across the surface of the marking composition or article can range from 1 to about 100 inches/minute (up to about 250 cm/minute), alternatively from about 1 or 2 to about 20 inches/minute (about 2.5 or 5 to 50 cm/minute) for most thicknesses and ingredients of the marking composition or article. The laser beam may be projected with a seam overlap of 1 to 100 percent, alternatively from about 10 to about 90 percent for many applications. The laser parameters are controlled in order to provide sufficient localized heating of the marking composition or article while avoiding unwanted damage to the substrate or article.

Once the marking composition is disposed on a portion of the substrate or once the article is formed from the compounded polymer material, the beam emanating from the laser radiation source impinges upon the marking composition or article, which irradiated portion absorbs the laser radiation and increases to the required temperature. In absorbing the laser radiation, at least a portion of the marking composition or article is excited, i.e. has its atoms or molecules raised to an excited state. [See Webster's Encyclopedic Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language (Portland House, New York, 1989), page 497.] Typically, a temperature of 200° F. to 1500° F. is reached in approximately one to two microseconds. Precise temperatures are controlled by the output power of the laser radiation source and the physical position of the marking composition or article relative to the focal plane of the laser radiation beam and the speed with which the beam is moving. Once the required temperature is achieved, the marking composition and substrate will permanently bond together to form a new marking layer atop the substrate or the irradiated portion of the article itself will be marked. Marking compositions or the articles can be formulated to absorb specific amounts of a specified wavelength of the laser radiation.

The permanent markings produced in accordance with the present subject matter have a thickness of from 0.01 to about 100 microns as measured from the surface of the substrate. In another aspect, the thickness is from about 0.05 to about 30 microns. In one aspect, substantially no indention or removal of the substrate is observed.

Several different methods are suitable for laser marking, for example: a) the mask method whereby the surface to be marked is uniformly coated with the marking composition or the article includes a uniform dispersion of enhancers, and the laser radiation is passed through a fixed, data specific mask and the laser radiation therefore impinges only the unmasked portions of the marking composition or article to produce the desired mark; b) the dot-matrix method whereby the surface to be marked is uniformly coated with the marking composition or the article includes a uniform dispersion of enhancers, and the laser radiation passes through a computer controlled, changeable data, dot-matrix mask and impinges onto the marking composition to produce the desired mark; c) the beam deflection method whereby the surface to be marked is uniformly coated with the marking composition or the article includes a uniform dispersion of enhancers, and the laser radiation passes through a beam steering head and impinges onto the marking composition or article to produce the desired mark; d) the X-Y plotter method whereby the surface to be marked is uniformly coated with the marking composition or the article includes a uniform dispersion of enhancers, and the laser radiation moves on a gantry type X-Y mechanism utilizing mirrors and/or fiber-optics and impinges onto the marking composition or article to produce the desired mark; e) the part moving method whereby the surface to be marked is uniformly coated with the marking composition or the article includes a uniform dispersion of enhancers, and the workpiece to be marked is moved using an X-Y motor driven stage under a stationary beam which impinges onto the marking composition or article to produce the desired mark; and f) the area irradiation method whereby data specific marking composition is uniformly applied to the surface of the substrate or the article includes a uniform dispersion of enhancers, and the data specific marking area is irradiated by means of a beam steering mechanism or by means of moving the workpiece under a stationary beam. In methods b), c), d), e) and f) the laser can be combined with a laser marking system so that the marking composition or article can be irradiated with any computer programmed digits, letters and special symbols where the laser beam strikes the marking composition or article in the most efficient manner possible.

The laser beam, the movement of which can be controlled by a computer, may be used to create discrete symbols or designs or, alternatively, may be serially indexed across the surface of the marking composition or article to create multiple symbols or designs at the same time. For example, a word may be created by separately making each letter of the word with the laser, or by rastering the laser across the entire word to form all of the letters at the same time.

During the irradiation step, the surface of the substrate or the article may be exposed to any desired type of atmosphere. For example, the atmosphere may comprise air at atmospheric, sub-atmospheric or super-atmospheric pressures. Furthermore, the atmosphere may comprise an inert gas such as nitrogen, argon or carbon dioxide, an oxidizing atmosphere such as air or oxygen, a reducing atmosphere such as hydrogen or carbon monoxide, or a vacuum.

Oxidizing or reducing gases can be used in a combination with inert gases. The atmosphere to which the surface of the substrate or the article is exposed may affect the color and the quality of the mark. A single laser beam may be used for marking in accordance with the present subject matter. Alternatively, two or more laser beams may be used.

Removal of Excess Marking Compositions from Substrates

The present subject matter methods involve removing the excess marking composition from the substrate. Excess marking composition not bonded to the substrate surface can be removed by conventional cleaning processes. In high-volume applications, the unused marking composition can be recovered from the cleaning process and reused.

Removal of excess marking composition is accomplished depending on the form and application technique employed to deliver and apply the marking composition. For example, if the marking composition was in powder form, the excess powder that was not subject to laser irradiation can be removed by wiping, dusting, washing, brushing off, vacuuming, subliming or blowing off the substrate, or the like. On the other hand, if the article used to apply the marking composition was a tape carrier, then the portion of the tape that was not irradiated by the laser can be peeled from the substrate. The irradiated portion of the marking compositions remains adhered to the substrate forming a permanent mark.

The present subject matter methods enable formation of high contrast or dark marks on a portion of a substrate. High-contrast marks or dark marks, for the purposes of this disclosure, means marks that are visible to the human eye, and/or machine readable, and are darker than the surrounding unmarked portions of the substrate. For example, a high-contrast or dark mark may appear on a transparent substrate to be a black, brown, purple, blue, green or other high-contrast, dark or colored mark.

After formation of a coating of the marking composition on the surface of interest, the coating and underlying surface is selectively irradiated with the noted source of energy, which in one embodiment comprises a laser. The term “selective irradiating” refers to directing laser radiation to only particular localized regions of the coating and underlying surface. These regions correspond to the shape and outline of the desired marks. The laser is operated as previously described, i.e. at the noted power levels and speeds. The distance of the laser source from the surface to be marked varies depending upon the focal length of the laser beam. Typically, one or more lenses can be used to focus the laser beam at 1.5, 2, and 4 inches from the surface for example. For many marking applications, a distance of about 1.5 inches between the lens and the surface to be marked is appropriate for a CO₂ laser as described herein.

Various types of marks may be produced in accordance with the present subject matter. For example, the marks may comprise alphanumeric symbols, graphics, logos, designs, decorations, serializations, bar codes, two dimensional matrices and the like. In addition, the markings may comprise three-dimensional lines forming patterns suitable for use in plasma display TV screens, fresnel lenses, polarizing filters, conductive circuits and the like.

In accordance with the present subject matter, permanent markings are formed with high contrast and high resolution. Resolution of the mark is determined, at least in part, by the size of the laser beam. Contrast of the mark from the substrate is typically determined, at least in part, by the laser beam energy, make up of the marking composition, and atmosphere in which the laser marking is performed.

Furthermore, by using conventional laser controlled hardware and software, the markings of the present subject matter may be quickly varied from operation to operation for applications such as serialization, bars codes, manufacturing quality control and automated manufacturing.

Evaluations

A series of investigations was conducted in which laser marks formed using inventive laser marking compositions and articles were contrasted with laser marks formed from commercially available comparative marking compositions and polymer materials not including the enhancers. The laser marks formed on various materials using the inventive marking compositions and compounded polymer materials and the comparative marking compositions and comparative polymer materials were compared as follows.

Evaluation 1. This evaluation was performed by marking a glass substrate using an inventive laser marking composition Inventive Example 1 comprising 10 wt % FeSi enhancer and LMM6000, which is a commercially available laser marking composition formulated for stainless steel, available from Ferro Corporation, Mayfield Heights, Ohio. The Comparative Example 1 includes the same marking composition as Example 1, but without 10 wt % FeSi enhancer. The laser marks were formed using a universal 35 watt CO₂ laser. The laser settings for Inventive Example 1 were 10P/10S, and for Comparative Example 1 were 25P/10S, wherein P=power in watts, and S=speed in inches per minute. The resulting laser markings on glass were evaluated for luminance and color value, and the evaluations are shown below in Table 1.

TABLE 1 Marking Composition L* a* b* DL* Da* Db* DE* Comparative 65.04 −0.67 4.65 Example 1 Inventive 31.41 0.10 0.14 −33.62 0.77 −4.51 33.93 Example 1

As can be seen, even though the LMM6000 marking composition is formulated for marking stainless steel, Example 1 including 10 wt % FeSi enhancer produced a laser mark on glass that was 33.62 units darker (i.e. DL*) versus the laser mark produced by Comparative Example 1 without enhancer.

Evaluation 2. This evaluation was performed by marking a ceramic substrate using Example 1 and Comparative Example 1. The laser marks were formed using a universal 35 watt CO₂ laser. The laser settings for Inventive Example 1 were 20P/40S, and for Comparative Example 1 were 20P/5S. The resulting laser markings on ceramic were evaluated for luminance and color value, and the evaluations are shown below in Table 2.

TABLE 2 Marking Composition Strength L* a* b* DL* Da* Db* DE* Inventive 51.5 0.55 4.27 Example 1 Comparative 100 61.6 3.74 9.91 10.1 3.19 5.64 12 Example 1

As can be seen, Comparative Example 1 without enhancer produced a laser mark on ceramic that was 10.1 units lighter (i.e. DL*) versus the laser mark produced by Inventive Example 1 with the enhancer.

Evaluation 3. This evaluation was performed by marking a glass substrate using an inventive marking composition Inventive Example 2, comprising 10 wt % FeSi enhancer, 5-35 wt % mixed metal oxide pigment, 0.5-10 wt % transition metal oxide, 1-15 wt % silicate mineral, 0.1-5 wt % binder, 35-65 wt % solvent, and 0.02-10 wt % dispersant. The Comparative Example 2 is a commercially available laser marking composition marketed as a “universal” or “all-purpose” laser marking composition. The laser marks were formed using a universal 35 watt CO₂ laser. The laser settings for Inventive Example 2 were 10P/25S, and for Comparative Example 2 were 10P/25S. The resulting laser markings on ceramic were evaluated for luminance and color value, and the evaluations are shown below in Table 3.

TABLE 3 Marking Composition L* a* b* DL* Da* Db* DE* Inventive 29.11 0.44 1.79 Example 2 Comparative 36.56 0.24 5.70 7.45 −0.20 3.92 8.42 Example 2

As can be seen, Comparative Example 2 produced a laser mark on glass that was 7.45 units lighter (i.e. DL*) versus Inventive Example 2.

Evaluation 4. This evaluation was performed by marking a ceramic substrate using Inventive Example 2 and Comparative Example 2. The laser marks were formed using a universal 35 watt CO₂ laser. The laser settings for Inventive Example 2 were 10P/15S, and for Comparative Example 2 were 10P/15S. The resulting laser markings on ceramic were evaluated for luminance and color value, and the evaluations are shown below in Table 4.

TABLE 4 Marking Composition L* a* b* DL* Da* Db* DE* Inventive 34.18 0.73 3.63 Example 2 Comparative 42.69 3.69 3.39 8.51 2.96 −0.25 9.02 Example 2

As can be seen, Comparative Example 2 without the enhancer produced a laser mark on ceramic that was 8.51 units lighter (i.e. DL*) versus the laser mark produced by Inventive Example 2 with the enhancer.

Evaluation 5. This evaluation was performed by marking a ceramic substrate using Inventive Example 2 and Comparative Example 2. The laser marks were formed using a universal 35 watt CO₂ laser. The laser settings for Inventive Example 2 were 15P/25S, and for Comparative Example 2 were 15P/25S. The resulting laser markings on ceramic were evaluated for luminance and color value, and the evaluations are shown below in Table 5.

TABLE 5 Marking Composition L* a* b* DL* Da* Db* DE* Inventive 23.92 0.80 1.70 Example 2 Comparative 37.38 3.08 5.77 13.46 2.28 4.07 14.25 Example 2

As can be seen, Comparative Example 2 without the enhancer produced a laser mark on ceramic that was 13.46 units lighter (i.e. DL*) versus the laser mark produced by Inventive Example 2 with the enhancer.

Evaluation 6. This evaluation was performed by marking an anodized aluminum substrate using Inventive Example 2 and Comparative Example 2. The laser marks were formed using a universal 35 watt CO₂ laser. The laser settings for Inventive Example 2 were 100P/10S, and for Comparative Example 2 were 100P/5S. The resulting laser markings on anodized aluminum were evaluated for luminance and color value, and the evaluations are shown below in Table 6.

TABLE 6 Marking Composition L* a* b* DL* Da* Db* DE* Inventive 36.66 1.62 5.36 Example 2 Comparative 50.48 2.26 12.37 13.82 0.65 7.02 15.51 Example 2

As can be seen, Comparative Example 2 without the enhancer produced a laser mark on ceramic that was 13.82 units lighter (i.e. DL*) versus the laser mark produced by Inventive Example 2 with the enhancer.

Evaluation 7. This evaluation involved the use of an inventive laser marking composition, Inventive Example 3, including 5-15 wt % enhancer (either FeSi, SiC, FeMn), 20-25 wt % CoCrMnFe MMO pigment, 5-10 wt % mica silicate mineral, 3-8 wt % MoO₃ transition metal oxide, 1-3 wt % hydroxypropyl cellulose binder, 45-55 wt % ethanol solvent, and 2-5 wt % dispersant in the form of equal parts Anti Terra 204 and DISPERSBYK 182.

A Comparative Example 3 laser marking composition was used and comprised commercially available laser marking compositions marketed as “universal” or “all-purpose” laser marking compositions, including in aerosol form comprising 15-40 wt % ethanol, 15-40 wt % acetone, 10-30 wt % propane, 5-10 wt % butane; 1-5 wt % molybdenum, 1-5 wt % crystalline silica, 1-5 wt % ethylene glycol butyl ether, and 0.1-1 wt % methyl isobutyl ketone; and in paste form comprising 50-55 wt % water, 9-11 wt % molybdenum trioxide, 12-14 wt % of a mixture containing 3-5 wt % quartz, 5-7 wt % pyrophyllite, 3-5 wt % mica, and 1-1.5 wt % kaolin clay.

The substrates marked including ceramic, glass, slate, anodized aluminum, aluminum, brass, stainless steel, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) polymer.

As shown in FIG. 1, proceeding clockwise from the upper left, a slate substrate, a ceramic substrate, and a glass substrate were marked with Inventive Example 3 including 5-15 wt % FeSi enhancer under various laser operation parameters.

As shown in FIG. 2, proceeding clockwise from the upper left, a stainless steel substrate, an aluminum substrate, an anodized aluminum substrate, a red dyed anodized aluminum, a brass substrate, an anodized aluminum substrate, and an anodized aluminum substrate, were marked with Inventive Example 3 including 5-15 wt % FeSi enhancer under various laser operation parameters.

As shown in FIG. 3, a polycarbonate plastic substrate was marked with Inventive Example 3 including 5-15 wt % FeSi enhancer under various laser operation parameters.

As shown in FIG. 4, the top ceramic substrate was marked with Inventive Example 3 including 5-15 wt % FeSi enhancer under various laser operation parameters, and the bottom ceramic substrate was marked with the Comparative Example 3 under various laser operation parameters. As can be seen, under the same laser operation parameters, Inventive Example 3 including 5-15 wt % FeSi enhancer produced darker, more contrasting marks than Comparative Example 3 not including the enhancer.

In particular, the following tables shows data from the markings depicted in FIG. 4. The inventive marks (top) and the comparative marks (bottom) were prepared using a Universal 35 watt laser, and the inventive marks were compared to the darkest comparative marks (i.e. those with the highest contrast), which were attained at 10, 15, 20 power. This comparison provides a greater latitude between the marking capabilities of the Inventive Example 3 versus the Comparative Example 3.

The Delta L in Table 7 is the darkness value at a laser power of 10 and a speeds of 15/20/25. As seen, the enhanced Inventive Example 3 exhibits a darker, more contrasting mark by an average of 11.1 units darker versus Comparative Example 3.

TABLE 7 Example Laser Power/Speed L* a* b* DL* Da* Db* DE* Comparative Example 3 10/15 42.96 1.99 3.62 Inventive Example 3 10/15 28.35 0.33 1.89 −14.61 −1.66 −1.74 14.81 Comparative Example 3 10/20 43.44 1.12 4.84 Inventive Example 3 10/20 32.71 0.52 2.89 −10.72 −0.6 −1.95 10.91 Comparative Example 3 10/25 41.97 1.09 6.22 Inventive Example 3 10/25 33.96 0.36 3.52 −8.01 −0.73 −2.7 8.48

The Delta L in Table 8 is the darkness value at a laser power of 15 and a speeds of 30/35/40. As seen, the enhanced Inventive Example 3 exhibits a darker, more contrasting mark by an average of 12.7 units darker versus Comparative Example 3.

TABLE 8 Example Laser Power/Speed L* a* b* DL* Da* Db* DE* Comparative Example 3 15/30 42.81 2.42 2.95 Inventive Example 3 15/30 28.24 0.5 2.58 −14.57 −1.92 −0.37 14.7 Comparative Example 3 15/35 43.32 1.7 3.74 Inventive Example 3 15/35 29.54 0.6 2.93 −13.78 −1.1 −0.81 13.85 Comparative Example 3 15/40 42.05 1.14 4.88 Inventive Example 3 15/40 32.29 0.69 3.35 −9.76 −0.46 −1.53 9.89

The Delta L in Table 9 is the darkness value at a laser power of 20 and a speeds of 15/20/25. As seen, the enhanced Inventive Example 3 exhibits a darker, more contrasting mark by an average of 14.2 units darker versus Comparative Example 3.

TABLE 9 Example Laser Power/Speed L* a* b* DL* Da* Db* DE* Comparative Example 3 20/15 51.6 1.98 10.59 Inventive Example 3 20/15 34.47 2 7.03 −17.13 0.03 −3.56 17.5 Comparative Example 3 20/20 46.78 4.48 7.56 Inventive Example 3 20/20 36.58 1.84 7.51 −10.2 −2.65 −0.05 10.54 Comparative Example 3 20/25 46.69 5.98 7.22 Inventive Example 3 20/25 31.51 1.49 5.03 −15.19 −4.49 −2.2 15.99

As shown in FIG. 5, the left glass substrate was marked with Inventive Example 3 including 5-15 wt % FeSi enhancer under various laser operation parameters, and the right glass substrate was marked with Comparative Example 3 under various laser operation parameters. As can be seen, under the same laser operation parameters, Inventive Example 3 including 5-15 wt % FeSi produced darker, more contrasting marks than Comparative Example 3.

As shown in FIG. 6, the top glass substrate was marked with Inventive Example 3 including 5-15 wt % SiC enhancer under various laser operation parameters, the bottom glass substrate was marked with Inventive Example 3 including 5-15 wt % ferrous manganese enhancer under various laser operation parameters, and the middle glass substrate was marked with the comparative marking composition example under various laser operation parameters. As can be seen, under the same laser operation parameters, Inventive Example 3 including either SiC or Ferrous manganese enhancers produced darker, more contrasting marks than Comparative Example 3 not including an enhancer.

As shown in FIG. 7, the slate substrate was marked with Inventive Example 3 including 5-15 wt % FeSi enhancer as indicated under various laser operation parameters, and the same slate substrate was marked as indicated with the Comparative Example 3 under various laser operation parameters. As can be seen, under the same laser operation parameters, Inventive Example 3 including 5-15 wt % FeSi produced darker, more contrasting marks than Comparative Example 3 not including enhancers.

As shown in FIG. 8, the anodized aluminum substrate was marked with Comparative Example 3 example under various laser operation parameters. As shown in FIG. 9, the anodized aluminum substrate was marked with Inventive Example 3 including 5-15 wt % FeSi enhancer as indicated under various laser operation parameters. As can be seen between FIGS. 8 and 9, under the same laser operation parameters, Inventive Example 3 including 5-15 wt % FeSi enhancer produced a mark as dark as, if not darker, than Comparative Example 3 not including enhancers.

As shown in FIG. 10, the left aluminum substrate was marked with Inventive Example 3 including 5-15 wt % FeSi enhancer under various laser operation parameters, and the right aluminum substrate was marked with the Comparative Example 3 under various laser operation parameters. As can be seen, under the same laser operation parameters, Inventive Example 3 including 5-15 wt % FeSi enhancer produced as dark, if not darker, marks than the Comparative Example 3 not including enhancer.

As shown in FIG. 11, the left brass substrate was marked with Inventive Example 3 including 5-15 wt % FeSi enhancer under various laser operation parameters, and the right brass substrate was marked with the Comparative Example 3 under various laser operation parameters. As can be seen, under the same laser operation parameters, the Inventive Example 3 including 5-15 wt % FeSi enhancer produced as dark, if not darker, marks than Comparative Example 3 not including enhancers.

As shown in FIG. 12, the left stainless steel substrate was marked with Inventive Example 3 including 5-15 wt % FeSi enhancer under various laser operation parameters, and the right stainless steel substrate was marked with the Comparative Example 3 under various laser operation parameters. As can be seen, under the same laser operation parameters, Inventive Example 3 including 5-15 wt % enhancer produced as dark, if not darker, marks than the Comparative Example 3 not including enhancers.

As shown in FIG. 13, the left TPU polymer substrate was marked with Inventive Example 3 including 5-15 wt % FeSi enhancer under various laser operation parameters, and the right TPU polymer substrate was marked with the Comparative Example 3 under various laser operation parameters. As can be seen, under the same laser operation parameters, Inventive Example 3 including 5-15 wt % enhancer produced darker, more defined marks than the Comparative Example 3 not including enhancers.

As shown in FIG. 14, the left ceramic polymer substrate was marked with Inventive Example 3 including 5-15 wt % FeSi enhancer at a select laser operation parameter, and the right ceramic substrate was marked with the Comparative Example 3 under the same laser operation parameter. As can be seen, under the same laser operation parameter, Inventive Example 3 including enhancer produced a darker, more defined mark than the Comparative Example 3 not including enhancers. As shown in FIG. 15, when subject to a colorimetry analysis, the mark made using Inventive Example 3 was darker than the Comparative Example mark by −8.5 ΔL units. The spectrophotometer being used to produce FIG. 15 was a Datacolor 600 spectrophotometer, and the software used was CGREC, Version 2.10.

Evaluation 8. This evaluation was performed by preparing Comparative Example 4 (FIG. 20) including only polypropylene 6600 as the polymer material, and Comparative Example 5 (FIG. 20) including 90 grams of polypropylene 6600 as the polymer material compounded with 5 grams of talc as a filler. The components were dispersed and extruded on a Davis Standard extruder, and formed into sheets on a two roll mill. The sheets were then marked with a YVO₄ fiber laser. As seen in FIG. 16, the polymer material generally had a white appearance, and the laser marks were not particularly dark and therefore were not particularly distinct from the non-irradiated portions of the polymer material.

Inventive Examples 4, 5, 6A and 7 (FIG. 17), and Inventive Example 8 (not shown) were prepared, and each included 5 grams of enhancer, 5 grams of talc, and 90 grams of polypropylene 6600. Inventive Example 6B (FIG. 20) was also prepared, which included 5 grams of enhancer, 95 grams of polypropylene 6600 and no talc. Inventive Example 4 included TIN enhancer, Inventive Example 5 included B₄C enhancer, Inventive Examples 6A and 6B included Si₃N₄ enhancer, Inventive Example 7 included SiC enhancer, and Inventive Example 8 included B₄C enhancer and additionally included 0.5 wt % carbon black as a pigment. The components were dispersed and extruded on a Davis Standard extruder, and formed into sheets on a two roll mill. As seen in FIGS. 17 and 20, the polypropylene in Comparative Example 4 had a light (i.e. white) appearance, the polypropylene and talc in Comparative Example 5 had a light (i.e. white) appearance, the TiN enhancer and talc in Inventive Example 4 produced a dark (i.e. brown) compounded material; the B₄C enhancer and talc in Inventive Example 5 produced a dark (i.e. black) compounded material; the Si₃N₄ enhancer and talc in Inventive Example 6A maintained a light (i.e. white) compounded material, the Si₃N₄ enhancer and no talc in Inventive Example 6B produced a medium colored (i.e. light grey) compounded material, and the SiC enhancer and talc in Inventive Example 7 maintained a light (i.e. off white) compounded material. The sheets were then marked with a YVO₄ fiber laser.

The highest contrasting laser marks in the inventive examples were then evaluated on a DataColor spectrophotometer for L.a.b values and in comparison to non-irradiated portions of the compounded polymer material (including the enhancer) as shown below in Table 10.

TABLE 10 Portion Example Enhancer Evaluated L* a* b* DL* Da* Db* DE* Comparative n/a Non-irradiated 51.63 −1.33 −3.84 Example 4 Laser Marked 47.72 −0.41 1.26 −3.9 0.92 5.1 6.49 Comparative n/a Non-irradiated 57.17 −1.29 −6.06 Example 5 Laser Marked 50.09 −0.92 −2.77 −7.09 0.37 3.29 7.82 Inventive TiN Non-irradiated 34.13 1.25 5.39 Example 4 Laser Marked 48.33 0.72 3.29 14.21 −0.52 −2.1 14.37 Inventive B₄C Non-irradiated 28 0.08 0.13 Example 5 Laser Marked 46.21 1.16 6.89 18.21 1.08 6.76 19.46 Inventive Si₃N₄ Non-irradiated 57.96 −0.14 4.63 Example 6A Laser Marked 36.69 2.49 8.13 −21.27 2.63 3.5 21.71 Inventive Si₃N₄ Non-irradiated 56.05 −0.39 4.18 Example 6B Laser Marked 35.15 2.67 8.3 −20.91 3.06 4.12 21.53 Inventive SiC Non-irradiated 66.55 1.31 11.02 Example 7 Laser Marked 32.24 1.81 6.04 −34.31 0.5 −4.98 34.67 Inventive B₄C—CB Non-irradiated 27.95 0.09 0 Example 8 Laser Marked 44.89 1.01 5.83 16.93 0.92 5.83 17.93

As seen in Table 10 and the accompanying FIG. 17, the laser marks produced in Inventive Examples 4, 5, and 8 were lighter (positive DL value) than non-irradiated portions of the compounded polymer material; and the laser marks produced in Inventive Examples 6 and 7 were darker (negative DL value) than non-irradiated portions of the compounded polymer material. Also, the laser marks in Inventive Examples 6 and 7 (which included compounded polymer material that maintained the light appearance of the polypropylene 6600) were darker than the laser marks formed in the Comparative Examples 4 and 5 not including an enhancer.

Evaluation 9. This evaluation was performed by preparing Comparative Example 6 including 90 grams of fluoropolymer as the polymer material compounded with 20 grams of glass beads as a filler. The components were dispersed in a shaker for 30 minutes with dispersion media, put through a filter to remove the dispersion media, and then drawn down into a film with a 3 mil bird bar to form a coating with a thickness of 0.003 inches over a Leneta card. The coating was then air dried. The films were marked with a YVO₄ fiber laser. As seen in FIG. 18, the polymer material generally had a white appearance, and the laser marks were not particularly dark and therefore were not particularly distinct from the non-irradiated portions of the polymer material.

Inventive Examples 9-12 were also prepared, each of which included 10 grams of enhancer, 90 grams of fluoropolymer (Super Shield from Shield Products Inc. of Doral, Fla., USA), and 20 grams of glass beads as a filler. Inventive Example 9 include SiC enhancer, Inventive Example 10 included Si₃N₄ enhancer, Inventive Example 11 included B₄C enhancer, and Inventive Example 12 included MoSi₂ enhancer. The components were dispersed in a shaker for 30 minutes with dispersion media, put through a filter to remove the dispersion media, and then drawn down into a film with a 3 mil bird bar to form a coating with a thickness of 0.003 inches over a Leneta card. The coating was then air dried. As seen in FIG. 19, the SiC enhancer in Inventive Example 9 and the Si₃N₄ enhancer in Inventive Example 10 both produced light (i.e. off white) films that were only slightly darker than Comparative Example 6, and the B₄C enhancer in Inventive Example 11 and the MoSi₂ enhancer in Inventive Example 12 both produced dark (i.e. black) films. The sheets were then marked with a YVO₄ fiber laser.

The highest contrasting laser marks in Inventive Examples 9-12 were then evaluated on a DataColor spectrophotometer for L.a.b values and in comparison to non-irradiated portions of the film as shown below in Table 11.

TABLE 11 Portion Example Enhancer Evaluated L* a* b* DL* Da* Db* DE* Inventive SiC Non-irradiated 67.52 1.7 12.46 Example 9 Laser Marked 58.81 2.11 12.5 −8.71 0.42 0.04 8.72 Inventive Si₃N₄ Non-irradiated 64 −0.61 6.27 Example 10 Laser Marked 56.71 2.9 13.88 −7.29 3.51 7.61 11.11 Inventive B₄C Non-irradiated 35.5 −0.15 0.75 Example 11 Laser Marked 54.43 0.08 1.78 18.93 0.23 1.03 18.95 Inventive MoSi₂ Non-irradiated 28.69 −0.5 −0.91 Example 12 Laser Marked 40.6 −0.42 −0.52 11.91 0.09 0.39 11.92

As seen in Table 11 and the accompanying FIG. 19, the laser marks produced in Inventive Examples 9 and 10 were darker (negative DL value) than non-irradiated portions of the compounded polymer material; and the laser marks produced in Inventive Examples 11 and 12 were lighter (positive DL value) than non-irradiated portions of the compounded polymer material. Also, the laser marks in Inventive Examples 9 and 10 (which had compounded polymer material that maintained the light appearance of the fluoropolymer) were darker than the laser marks formed in the Comparative Example 6 not including an enhancer.

As will be appreciated, the inventive marking compositions provide improved markings on a variety of substrates over the marking compositions of the comparative examples, and therefore the inventive marking compositions truly are universal or all-purpose marking compositions that can provide improved laser marks on a variety of substrates as compared to conventional marking compositions, which provide satisfactory marks on only a limited number of substrates (e.g. metal) and therefore cannot be considered universal or all-purpose marking compositions.

It will be appreciated that various of the above-disclosed and other features and functions, or alternatives or varieties thereof, may be desirably combined into many other different systems or applications. Also that various presently unforeseen or unanticipated alternatives, modifications, variations or improvements therein may be subsequently made by those skilled in the art which are also intended to be encompassed by the following claims. 

1. A compounded polymer material comprising a polymer material compounded with an enhancer selected from the group consisting of nitrides, carbides, silicides, and combinations thereof, wherein: upon exposing an irradiated portion of the compounded polymer material to laser radiation, the irradiated portion absorbs the laser radiation, increases in temperature and forms a mark having a luminance, color value, or degrees of opacity that provides visual contrast with a non-irradiated portion of the compounded polymer material; a lightness value difference (ΔL) between the mark and the non-irradiated portion has an absolute value of at least 5; and the lightness value difference between the mark and the non-irradiated portion is greater than if the polymer material did not include the enhancer.
 2. The compounded polymer material according to claim 1, wherein the enhancer is included at 2-20 wt % of the compounded polymer material.
 3. The compounded polymer material according to claim 2, wherein the enhancer is selected from the group consisting of FeMn, (Co)Mo, CaSi, Cu₅Si, FeSi, Fe₅Si₂, MgFeSi, MnSi₂, MoSi₂, Ni₂Si, TiSi₂, ZrSi₂, WSi₂, YSi, Al₄C₃, boron carbide (B₄C), CaC₂, Fe₃C, Fe₇C₃, Fe₂C, LaC₂, Mg₂C, Mg₂C₃, MoC, Mo₂C, Mo₃C₂, SIC, Ta₄C₃, YC₂, WC, AlN, BN, Fe₂N, Fe₃N, Fe₄N, Fe₇N₃, Fe₁₆N₂, MoN, Mo₂N, Si₃N₄, TiN, W₂N, WN, WN₂, ZrN, and combinations thereof.
 4. The compounded polymer material according to claim 1, wherein the polymer material comprises one or more of polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, synthetic rubber, phenol formaldehyde resin, neoprene, nylon, polyacrylonitrile, PVB, silicone, fluoropolymers, acrylics, polycarbonates, and ethylene vinyl acetate.
 5. The compounded polymer material according to claim 4, wherein the polymer material is polypropylene.
 6. The compounded polymer material according to claim 5, wherein the compounded polymer material is in sheet form.
 7. The compounded polymer material according to claim 6, further comprising 1-15 wt % talc.
 8. The compounded polymer material according to claim 1, wherein the polymer material is a fluoropolymer.
 9. The compounded polymer material according to claim 8, wherein the compounded polymer material further includes 5-20 wt % glass beads.
 10. The compounded polymer material according to claim 9, wherein the compounded polymer material is coated on a substrate.
 11. A method of producing laser marks, comprising: providing a polymer material and an enhancer selected from the group consisting of nitrides, carbides, silicides, and combinations thereof; compounding the polymer material and the enhancer to produce a compounded polymer material; forming the compounded polymer material into an article having a desired configuration; irradiating an irradiated portion of the article with laser radiation such that the irradiated portion absorbs the laser radiation, increases in temperature, and forms a mark in the article that has a luminance, color, and/or degree of opacity that contrasts with a non-irradiated portion of the article, wherein a lightness value difference (ΔL) between the mark and the non-irradiated portion has an absolute value of at least 5; and the lightness value difference between the mark and the non-irradiated portion is greater than if the polymer material did not include the enhancer.
 12. The method according to claim 11, wherein the enhancer is included at 2-20 wt % of the compounded polymer material
 13. The method according to claim 12, wherein the enhancer is selected from the group consisting of ferromanganese (FeMn), (Co)Mo, CaSi, Cu₅Si, ferrosilicon (FeSi), Fe₅Si₂, MgFeSi, MnSi₂, MoSi₂, Ni₂Si, TiSi₂, ZrSi₂, WSi₂, YSi, A₁₄₀₃, boron carbide (B₄C), CaC₂, Fe₃C, Fe₇C₃, Fe₂C, LaC₂, Mg₂C, Mg₂C₃, MoC, Mo₂C, Mo₃C₂, SiC, Ta₄C₃, YC₂, WC, AlN, BN, Fe₂N, Fe₃N, Fe₄N, Fe₇N₃, Fe₁₆N₂, MoN, Mo₂N, Si₃N₄, TiN, W₂N, WN, WN₂, ZrN, and combinations thereof
 14. The method according to claim 11, wherein the polymer material comprises one or more of polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, synthetic rubber, phenol formaldehyde resin, neoprene, nylon, polyacrylonitrile, PVB, silicone, fluoropolymers, acrylics, polycarbonates, and ethylene vinyl acetate.
 15. The method according to claim 14, wherein the polymer material is polypropylene.
 16. The method according to claim 15, wherein the article is a sheet of the compounded polymer material.
 17. The method according to claim 16, wherein the compounded polymer material further comprises 1-15 wt % talc.
 18. The method according to claim 11, wherein the polymer material is a fluoropolymer.
 19. The method according to claim 18, wherein the compounded polymer material further includes 5-20 wt % glass beads.
 20. The method according to claim 19, wherein the article is a coating of the compounded polymer material on a substrate. 